What people say about us

When we started this journey I never imagined I would be able to feel the way I do today. Your care and encouragement to do what we felt was right has been a breath of fresh air. It has made Mum’s death such a positive and empowering experience and you gave us the confidence and strength to do things we might never have otherwise dreamt of doing. Being able to have Mum at home yesterday to complete her flowers and spend time with the family was a fitting start to the days proceedings. Your recommendation to use Ruth was the final piece in the jigsaw, helping us to provide a perfect celebration of Mum’s life. I cannot thank you both enough for the time and care you have given to us all.

Stephanie, Sutton Coldfield

From when we first spoke to Fran and Carrie we knew our daughter, Jen, was being looked after by people who were interested in her and wanted to understand what she and we would want. Their approach was both compassionate and creative as they enabled and supported us to think of all the ways we could participate in saying our painful and so important goodbyes to Jen such as dressing her and bringing her coffin into the chapel. They were honest with us in all their dealings both practical and emotional and we trusted them implicitly with our daughter. Life without Jen is very tough but they gave us some control and participation in our reluctant goodbyes and we can’t thank them enough.

Cathy and John, Nuneaton

The funeral was as we had hoped and Maryvonne would have approved. It was in the gentle and personal style that she wished for as well as how she wanted her death and burial to be part of a natural process. Your help and support throughout were invaluable. As Magali, our daughter remarked, you respected the way we planned the service and were always very discreetly in the background, but ready to offer advice or step in when help was needed at some of the crucial moments. The feeling that there were caring and competent professionals there every step of the way makes the difficult journey less daunting. Many of our friends asked afterwards, ‘who were those remarkable young women?’.

Once again, a sincere thank-you from all the family. We were lucky to find out about your service via the internet, but as word of mouth spreads I am sure many will be asking for your help in the future.

Edmond, Selly Oak

Thank you so much for your genuine kindness and professionalism. It is to your great credit that I am able to write at all in a time of great distress for me personally. I thank you all on behalf of my whole family and friends. I cannot really praise you all enough for the wonderful way you arranged and managed everything which was the utmost that we all could have wished for. It is rare to come across such humanity, consideration and thoughtfulness and we all wish everyone at A Natural Undertaking the very, very best fortune for the future. I feel that someone above has chosen you for your vocation. With heartfelt gratitude to you all.

Ray, Gloucester

I would like to thank you for organising the perfect day for Paul’s send off. We have had so much feedback from his friends to say how wonderful the service was and that they especially liked how they were involved in decorating his coffin. Many commented on how they had never attended a service like it before and I truly believe people will now start to consider a natural burial as an alternative. Thank you for making it a day of celebration instead of a sombre occasion.

Sue, Shirley

You really made a difference to all of us during a dreadful situation. Your approach meant such a lot. You really have got it right. Thanks for everything – including the hugs

Jude and Steve, Moseley

I just wanted to say how delighted myself and everyone who came to Alan’s funeral was with all your care and attention. I have received so many comments on how much they ‘enjoyed’ the occasion! Many people have said they would like that sort of funeral for themselves, what a lovely experience it was for the children who came, and that it was the best funeral they had ever attended.

Jennie, Evesham

I have to say whenever I think about the funeral they are always such happy thoughts of a wonderful and memorable day. And if anyone asks me about it I am so enthusiastic about telling the story including the two lovely ladies who made it all happen! Forever grateful and so appreciate your kindness and all the extra little touches, going out of your way for us. Can never thank you enough, all my love.

Alie, Oldbury

Reviews on Google

I cannot speak highly enough of A Natural Undertaking. Fran and her whole team provide a... very professional and efficient service with the care and compassion which is so important at a time of grief. In such a difficult time of the Covid pandemic, this especially more stressful experience was made easier by their very personal care.read more

Truly a remarkable company to use for such a horrible time. Their knowledge of the... industry provides a lot of comfort and are very willing and happy to move to in keep with requests.
Would recommend them to anyone that should ever have the misfortune of needing them. They genuinely turn a horrible situation into the event the deceased would want it to be.read more

Carrie and Fran have built a business that feels genuinely different. They were warm,... friendly and very responsive. They wanted to help us create the funeral that was right for our family, and to remember Dad in our warm and slightly quirky way. They even indulged us with the custard jokes. I cannot recommend them more highly and wish them every success with their alternative take on remembrance.read more

A Natural Undertaking is an undertakers with a difference. No stuffy offices with men in... black suits. Just lovely helpful and caring people. Lots of choices were available and nothing was too much trouble. We did not feel pressurised or rushed into making decisions. Our whole experience was dealt with total empathy and efficiency. Would highly recommend them. Definitely 5 stars.read more

We were so thankful for all that Carrie, Zed and Fran did to help us through the period... following the devastation of Oliver's death. The sense that they really empathised with the pain of what we were going through and their way of guiding us, while encouraging us to do what was most helpful and most reflected Oliver's life was so empowering. You can't re-do a funeral! It was so important to us that it was 'right' and they made that easier at a time when we were struggling to think clearly. The service they provided was so personal and sensitive. Thank you!read more

Carrie, Fran and everyone at A Natural Undertaking were fantastic in arranging my Mum's... funeral. Carrie was keen right from the start to make sure that everything was just so, despite the fact that we were working on a budget. Everything was clear and well explained (in fact, from beginning to end, communication was exemplary). Fran was fantastic in putting together the order or service as well. They communicated with all of the relevant parties, such that everything came together seamlessly.
I hope that I never need to, but if I need to arrange a funeral again, I won't hesitate to give them a call.read more

I can't speak highly enough of Carrie, Fran and the entire Natural Undertaking team. ... Their compassion and professionalism were outstanding. The funeral and the celebration of life for my Father-in-Law were just what he and the family wanted, we couldn't have asked for better. The Natural Undertaking team were there for us from the start, from their calm reception area to their suggestions for flowers, locations and support with all those little details - they just smoothed the way. I would recommend them in a heartbeat.read more

From start to finish Carrie, Fran and zed were the most wonderful undertakers we could... have asked for. They were so much more than just funeral directors, they were supportive, respectful and inspiring.
Our family had an idea of what we wanted for Holly's funeral and everyone at A Natural Undertaking helped guide us with her wishes.
Holly wanted a natural burial and it was in her quirky nature to have a creative and diverse farewell which is exactly what she got.
Death and grief is extremely hard especially when a loved one is so young. We felt like we had an opportunity to help others through this process as a result of everything they had to offer us. Our family, our children & friends were all involved (as per our wishes) thanks to the huge effort and organisation of these wonderful people at A Natural Burial.
Thank you so much for everything you did for Holly and family. We will hold you in our hearts forever xread more

From our first meeting with Fran to the day of our son's funeral, we were treated with... care, empathy, dignity and understanding. The whole team at A Natural Undertaking, Fran, Zed and Carrie, paid attention to the smallest of details in the planning of his funeral, carefully explaining everything to us in a way which was clear but sensitive. Their handling of the arrangements ensured that he had a beautiful and fitting send off. We could not have been given a better level of care, and we would highly recommend them to anyone who wants to give their loved one a unique, individually tailored farewell.read more

We would like to congratulate Fran and Cassie for looking after our dear friend... Joan.
From the start to finish the care, kindness and attention to detail was second to non.
We were given help and support with all the arrangements and we felt that the stress, of loosing a loved one so suddenly, had been taken off our shoulders.
They helped to turn the day into a wonderful tribute to Joan.
We would highly recommend this wonderful service!read more

The service provided by a Natural Undertaking was perfect.
Fran and Carrie advised and... guided us through both the process and the decisions that we needed to make for my father’s funeral with thought and understanding. They advised us what was possible and made constructive suggestions without pressure. They then calmly undertook the organisation of the service itself with calm efficiency despite late inputs from ourselves. The resulting service was both personal and appropriate to say goodbye to my father from myself, our family and his friends.
I was specifically appreciated that Carrie found time to discuss in general the workings of the undertaking business which one at other times have little time or inclination to investigate. It certainly helped me during this time.
I whole heartedly recommend this company.read more

Carrie and Fran are amazing! Nothing is too much trouble for them and they go the extra... mile to make sure that people get exactly the funeral they want. We had a big funeral at Cambridge Road Methodist Church and wanted to use a YouTube clip of my husband playing the Birmingham Town Hall organ which had been his special 60th birthday treat. Carrie managed to arrange an audio clip so that everyone heard Mark playing at his own funeral, which made the service really special. I know Mark would have loved the service. Thanks Carrie and Fran - I would recommend you to anyone.read more

Carrie and Frances bought a heart centred approach to a very sad and difficult time with... the death of my brother. They organised the funeral in a week and it ran so seemlessly, so smoothly that the image I get when summing up how I feel about their services is a beautiful Swan gently gliding through water. Thier compassion, kindness and ability to listen, guide and respond softens my heart as I write this.
Their attention to detail and having everything covered was such a massive weight off the family’s shoulders. We felt completely held. It seems strange to write this but they were a breath of fresh air to what is in essence is a very difficult time. Thank you so much Carrie and Frances - just like Swans gliding through water, you made a very difficult time seem like a heart centred natural undertaking. K Mannread more

Professional, sensitive, efficient and compassionate from start to finish. Their... personal, alternative and fresh approach was exactly what we wanted yet without compromising all the finer arrangement details, which were dealt with perfectly. I can’t recommend them highly enough at what is always a difficult time.read more

A Natural Undertaking were recommended to us following the death of my wife, by a friend... who had used them previously. From our first meeting, we felt we were in good hands with a team that could talk us through the complexities of the arrangements and discuss the range of options available to us in a personal and very caring way. Working together we planned a service that included a number of unique elements that reflected the exceptional individual who sadly we were having to lay to rest. On the day, the arrangements worked perfectly and the feedback from friends and relatives who attended has been very positive. I am so glad we worked with A Natural Undertaking - we received a very personal and caring service and the whole team were a pleasure to deal with.read more

As a family we decided to go forward with a direct cremation and hold our own service... outside a church environment. Even though this was with our fathers wishes it is sometimes easy to think you must follow the 'traditional' route. Fran & Carrie were both supportive in helping us ensure the day was the right mix of sadness and celebration. It was the little caring things which made the difference. So if you want the right service without feeling you are still in the 1950s then Natural Undertaking will provide a first class service whether its a simple option like ours or a full bespoke option.read more

Right from my first phone call Fran at A Natural Undertaking was amazing. She was kind,... warm and comforting at a time when that is exactly what you need. She gave me wonderful advice and made sure that we were able to create the most wonderful, individual funeral for my mum that still makes me smile when I think of it. They were there at every step of the way with support, advice and practical help. Thank you so much.read more

It was so refreshing to meet you and your team , I just wish it had been under different circumstances. Thank you so so much for all your blessed help and support . I don’t know AT ALL how I would have coped with out you . I think he went off in such a loving and special way that all who miss him felt pleased in the knowledge that we all took a part and did our best to send him to the other life in a ‘heaven on earth way ‘ and I think in a manner that will heal our hurts knowing that he would have been pleased and touched by all the living hands with him that day. Truely …if you should ever need support either in a personal or professional way I’m there for you , and I know a few others who would be honoured to help you. Thank you , thank you …you did a magnificent job xxx

Mary, Balsall Heath

Thank you so much for your help with the organisation of Dad’s funeral. It went really well and was everything that we wanted it to be. Mum was really pleased with it. You were both great and it felt like we were working with a couple of friends (competent and trustworthy friends). Dad would have loved it and he would have enjoyed meeting you both, It was also great to support a small local business run by women and I would definitely recommend you to other people.

Sally, Moseley

Kevin and I just want to thank you so much for the wonderful celebration of John’s life. John must have guided me to you and Fran, and Ellie. John could not have wished for a better send off into the next world. I cried for most of the night, but I think that most of that was because of the Beautiful farewell.

Everyone agreed that this would have been John’s way, and Kevin and I thank you so much, with all my heart

Jan, Kings Norton

I’ve been working with A Natural Undertaking in Kings Heath a lot recently – really lovely women with a passion for getting funerals just right. So many things about standard funerals just don’t flex enough to suit the individual – it’s so nice to see undertakers who really go the extra mile to do just that. Three cheers for Carrie and Fran!

Carole Patilla

Tuckshop Flowers

Carrie and Fran are not your traditional men in black directing funerals. From the moment they answered a call to the days after the funeral they offered calm and care. They take time to talk things through face-to-face and explore different options, right up to just before the funeral. I wanted to be personally involved in picking up my late dad and bringing him to the site of the funeral – they enabled that too.

James D Sidaway, Singapore

I just want to thank you again for the wonderful service you provided for Mum today – I can’t find the words to express the gratitude that we all feel.

Everyone said ‘that was the most perfect & wonderful funeral they had ever attended’ (that says a lot when my one Uncle is over 80!) They had no idea that there was ‘another way’ to say goodbye & all agreed that they would choose this in the future.

Honestly everyone was ‘blown away’ by you girls & everything you did

Ree, Wolverhampton

My thanks to Fran and to the sympathetic approach of A Natural Undertaking.

It was a very special day and a very special funeral for a very special person. At no stage did I feel that I had let go of Julie – I felt totally connected with her from the day of her passing until the day that we said our last goodbyes.

Jim, Kings Heath

My mother had wanted no fuss, no funeral, no family, and had hoped to give her body to medical science followed by a cremation. Sadly due to the timing of her death just prior to Christmas, schools were out and her body sadly unable to be kept over the holidays. This left us with the task of finding a dignified and private cremation. Up stepped A Natural Undertaking, who were fantastic from the time I first explained what I was looking for, through to a cremation itself held in Nottingham. Their sensitivity was exactly what was needed, and even over Christmas they were able to keep in touch and arrange all that needed to happen. All the stress was taken out of the funeral process, and my mother’s ultimate wish was met perfectly.

Thank you so much for your dignity and professionalism, and we wish you and your business success for the future

Andy, Bloxham

I often think of your kindness and would like to thank you for the efficient and caring way you organised my father’s funeral and cremation. Your excellent advice and kindness were invaluable at this difficult time; we would certainly recommend you to everyone

Carolyn, Harborne

I cannot sing your praises enough, both professionally and personally. You provided a magnificent and fitting farewell for my father which he would have been proud of. His friends watched in Spain and had nothing but praise for the whole ceremony and were so pleased to have been able to be included via the webcast

Nina, Boston

We were all incredibly happy with the service and all of the arrangements. We honestly don’t feel it could have gone any better. All the elements were perfect and Dad would have absolutely loved it. It was overwhelmingly sad but overwhelmingly joyful. Two sides of the same coin of course. You and Fran were so wonderful and gave us exactly the right amount of support, information and confidence to do what we wanted to do to make it right for us. Thank you. Thank you.

Nina, Bromsgrove

I really appreciated your help and advice. From the first contact, home visits, our meeting at Cafe to my husbands cremation, I felt support from you. You even made me laugh.

You’re very good professionals in your business. I will advise you to everybody who will need the perfect funeral directors

Renata, Wolverhampton

I was one of the attendees at my neighbour, Chris’ funeral and wanted to say thank you. I was kindly invited by his wife to the funeral of a very lovely man. I found the whole service very moving and very personal. It showed infinitely more about the man than a traditional service. I pray that when I pass I may be treated with the same level of care that you afforded Chris. Thank you

D.R. , Northfield

I just wanted to say a big thank you for yesterday. It was beautiful and really did us all proud. Having that freedom to do what we really wanted made for a truly fitting farewell. I really admire what you are doing but that aside I felt we received a truly professional yet friendly service. Lots of love xxxxx

Sarah, Kings Heath

Our family called on the services of A Natural Undertaking last month when my sister-in-law Wynne died unexpectedly. We knew her wish was to have a woodland burial but her sudden death meant that no plans were in place and we had to start right at the beginning to find not only a suitable site for her grave but a fitting memorial service to celebrate her life.

Fran and Carrie helped us navigate our way through all the necessary procedures with a gentle, sympathetic and yet supremely professional touch. Through their network of suppliers they handled everything from selecting a beautiful coffin to printing invitations and service programmes to flowers for the tables at the memorial event. The whole day was absolutely pitch perfect and summed up by one of the family referring to our floral posies as “Wynne in a vase”.

I cannot recommend A Natural Undertaking highly enough. Thank you Fran and Carrie for helping us to give Wynne the funeral and memorial celebration she deserved.

Ann, Cambridge

Fran and Carrie have to be the best undertakers – ever. They arranged a funeral for my brother exactly to my and my brothers wishes even though it was unconventional and green. They just did everything we needed from the coffin to the commemoration to the catering and the green burial. I cannot recommend them highly enough.

Peter, Cheddar

The Good Funeral Guide has observed the development of A Natural Undertaking from concept to launch. From the start we have felt certain that Carrie and Fran are winners. Here are two highly bright, capable women who have an informed understanding of the needs of bereaved people today. This is an ethical, emotionally intelligent business run by exceptional people who deal transparently and charge fairly. The people of Birmingham are very lucky to have them.

Charles Cowling

The Good Funeral Guide

With calm professionalism and understanding you enabled me to choose the way my mother would have wished to be remembered and organised all the elements necessary. My wife Eileen and I felt you were both with us all the way, and constantly working in our interests. You went out of your way to ensure we were informed and supported

Mike, Walsall

I was not able to attend my sister in-law’s funeral in the UK as my son was too young to fly from NZ. I had daily contact with my mother and father in-law who told me every day they visited how truly fantastic they were to them in their time of need. It is such a relief to know there are organisations like A Natural Undertaking with such understanding and compassionate people who can support families through the hardest times of their lives. It made all the difference to know that whilst I couldn’t be there to support them myself, there were others who knew exactly what to say, and do, when they needed it. I heard of such understanding and how they handled every step of the way with such delicacy that you know that Fran and Carrie are not just operating a funeral directors but this is a true vocation for them.

Megan, New Zealand

The most respectful, unhurried, beautiful send off. If only more people knew they had these choices. I was really happy to be part of it and to witness what fantastic work you do.

Ruth Graham, Sutton Coldfield

Celebrant

Please feel free to call us to discuss your situation and see how we might help: 0121 444 0437

18 Comments

Ree & pete hickman
on 6th May 2015 at 7:53 pm

We searched the internet for a more natural way to say goodbye to Our aunt – she led a simple life and would not have wanted a Formal cremation. When We found the website of ‘a natural undertaking’ We were Elated & knEw they would look after aunt.
From the minute We met carrie we knew she cared deeply not only about our needs but also About what our aunt would have wanted. Carrie was professional, honest & so kind, she helped us through all the formalities and kept us informed as the process of direct cremation proceeded.
It was so nice to discuss everything face to face in our own home.
the whole experience has been a breath of fresh air and i can highly recommend Them – whatever your needs.
Thank you so much for everything – God bless
Xxxxx

when someone close to you dies, you really need a friend.
carrie and fran are the best friends you never knew you had. they are like no funeral directors i have met. do men in black suits give you a hug, because that’s exactly what carie and fran do.
They will take care of everthing and charge a very fair price.
thank you for being there.

A Natural Undertaking are the best funeral directors. Fran and Carrie are both very supportive and empathetic and could not do enough to help us to plan our mothers funeral. They facilitated us in achieving the kind of send off Mum would have loved. Nothing was too much ` even chasing the coroner and GP to rush through the delayed death certificate in time for the funeral! They are exceptionally charismatic and discrete ` Mum would have loved them. I cannot thank them enough for delivering the kind of funeral we could only have dreamed of . Thank you both so much xx

When I heard about Fran and Carrie at A Natural Undertaking I was delighted, as I knew they could offer just what I was looking for. my boyfriend, Andrew, would not have wanted a formal cremation. He would have wanted to keep things as Natural and simple as possible.
When I spoke to Fran she explained about direct cremations. She was so helpful, caring and supportive. She listened as I talked endlessly about Andrew and helped me to make choices which we agreed would be in keeping with his wishes. She kept me informed at every stage of the proceedings and helped to guide me through the sad and painful process of saying goodbye.
Fran and Carrie were so compassionate and understanding that I could rest assured that they would care for Andrew with dignity and respect.
Thank you so much for everything.
Rosanna xx

Within minutes of my first conversation with Fran, I knew I had found the right people to help me with my Mom’s funeral.
Empathetic, compassionate, interested (in both my Mom and myself), professional, supportive, caring , helpful, friendly, efficient.
Fran and Carrie assembled a dream team with Ruth the Celebrant to help send Mom off in a sympathetic and slightly kooky way, which reflected and celebrated my Mom.
They respected some quite different requests, got involved and made some fantastic suggestions of their own culminating in a memorable and in many ways happy day which celebrated Moms life. Everyone commented saying the whole occasion was very much my Mom and I am very grateful.
You made a tough time, very easy, thank you

I’m back in the warmth and sunshine of the UAE so feel ready to sing the praises of Fran and Carrie for the warmth and sensitivity that they showed in their dealings with my family and me.
They have just the right balance of professionalism and empathy resulting in a funeral service which was unique to our family and felt like the right farewell for my Mum and my children’s Grandmother.
Thankyou

I would have no hesitation in recommending A Natural Undertaking. I received a first class service from them. Carrie, who arranged my mother’s funeral, was friendly and empathetic and really took time to listen to my requests. I was very impressed by her organisational skills and by the fact that I was always kept ‘in the loop’ by e-mail and telephone conversations. The funeral itself went very smoothly and A Natural Undertaking played a key role in helping to make such a sad occasion a more bearable one for me. My heartfelt thanks go to everyone at A Natural Undertaking and I wish you every success in the future.

I can’t thank Fran and Carrie enough for the way they helped me through a very difficult time. From the first phone call to the delivery of my husbands ashes Fran was there organising everything for me. I let her know what type of funeral my husband had asked for she organised everything. The funeral itself whas beautiful, just what my husband wanted. i wish Fran and Carrie every success in the future.

‘A Natural Undertaking’
We were fortunate to find ‘A Natural Undertaking’ last November when we were faced with unenviable task of organising our fathers funeral/send off.
Fran & Carrie were amazing. Their attention to detail and compassionate approach was excellent.
They provided us with a wealth of options and choices assuring us we could have the ceremony we wanted. Most importantly they listened to our wishes and took an interest in our father as a person. They were genuine with their kindness and were able to make recommendations to suit our needs not theirs.
It was not a traditional service, our father did not want this. He wanted something to suit his quirky character which reflected his love of life. They ensured his final send off was everything he wanted.
He was treated with dignity and respect which gave us great comfort.
Fran & Carrie were very supportive So important at such a time. It was refreshing to meet such professionals who genuinely cared and are so passionate about providing a good service/experience.
I have recommended them to several people, one lady has used their service since, she too was really happy to have found them. A breath of fresh air to find such an outstanding company who accommodate your wishes.
They really deserve credit for their bespoke service which is personalised, compassionate and to a very high standard.
I really hope they receive the recognition they deserve which will enable them to continue with their excellent business.
Our father had the send off he desired which gave his 3 daughters some comfort at a very difficult time.
Thank you Fran & Carrie xx

Just wanted to thank Fran and Carrie for a job well done. We were really impressed by the personal touch and professionalism they showed and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend A NATURAL UNDERTAKING as they were so accommodating in every regard. Friendly and attentive, Fran was wonderful from start to finish and managed to give us just what we wanted. Thanks very much Fran, was much appreciated x

It has been a couple of days since the funeral of my wife and at this incredibly difficult time i have spent so much of it talking to people who have said how wonderful the funeral was. I had an idea of what i wanted but Fran and Carrie were amazing from the second i met them. Firstly they comforted me that this was about what my wife and I wanted and that was the most important thing for me. They let me tell them my ideas, they didn’t question them, they supported my ideas and also added other ideas that were just perfect. They took so much time listening and understanding my wife, who she was to me and my family. I honestly feel that they got to know my wife really well. They supported us as a family leading the service but were always there to back us up all the way. They kept us updated at every stage and I was truly comforted that my wife was in their care and that she was safe.
Nothing was any trouble to them and i felt like we were a team all working for the same thing.
I had an opportunity to speak to someone who worked at the crematorium the day after the funeral and he said how much he enjoyed working with Fran and Carrie and he was sure that if they could do their job for free then they would, that he, as do i, truly believe that as sad as the occasion is, they love their work, take it personally and work incredibly hard for what the family want.
I cant say i have ever recommended a funeral company but if i was asked i would very very strongly recommend Fran and Carrie, they are beautiful people, so nice, so gentle and i feel honored that i have had the chance to spend time with them and truly understand and see that a funeral can be anything you want it to be to express your final wishes in a way that is so important to you at the final farewell.
Thank you so much, i shall never ever forget that you made it happen for me to say a final farewell to my true love and soul mate in the most beautiful way, you made that happen.

When my wife passed away, I started off by simply searching the internet for local funeral directors. As soon as I came across the ‘A Natural Undertaking’ website, I knew that this was what myself and my daughters were looking for. Carrie and Fran were thoroughly professional throughout the whole process but in a very kind, compassionate and caring way. Following the funeral, I have spoken to many of the people who attended and, without exception, they were all impressed with the ceremony. This was due in large part to Carrie, Fran and also Marie, the celebrant whom they suggested. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend ‘A Natural Undertaking’ to anyone who finds themselves in the unenviable position of having to organise a loved one’s funeral.
Thank you, Carrie and Fran xx

Dear Carrie, Fran and Zed,
we wanted to pass on a huge thank you for looking after our mom so well , and making everything so easy for us at this really difficult time. Frank and all the family really appreciated your kindness ,attention to detail and simply caring , making it the perfect send off for the most important person in our lives , kindest regards from Frank, Jane, Alison, Andy and Liz xx

My father was english, but I m french! Fran and Carrie have been very helpful in that difficult moment. I could feel they really wanted to guide us. Let me (and my sibblings) choose telling us what we need to know and adviced us when We didn t know what was the best. I trust in them, just speaking on the phone and by mail (at 11pm!!!) without seing them before the burial. My english uncle who was also in contact with them was also glad we chose them. And the personns who came at the burrial said it was the best funeral they ve been to.Thank you Fran and Carry. I can t compare to others funeral companies but I m sure you re nicely different!

Carrie was just what I needed when dealing with the shock of my husband’s death. The care and friendship we received to encourage us to do what felt right for us as a family was generous and professional at all times. We were not rushed, but helped to plan just what we wanted. Putting us in touch with Jess, the celebrant, was crucial in making the day very special. My husband would have loved it, and we were able to say our goodbyes in the most loving way, surrounded by the things he enjoyed and the people he loved. Thank you a natural undertaking, you are doing the people of Birmingham a brilliant service.

when my best friend lost her beloved husband I mentioned that I had read about the fantastic Fran and Carrie at a natural undertaking in the local free Moseley mag – I was fascinated by their philosophy and they seemed to offer a more individual and humane service. Since that beautiful service, two more of my friends have used their services and have been incredibly impressed. In December my beloved brother in law died after a terrible 18-month journey battling MND, requiring us to give him around the clock nursing. Fran and Carrie managed to support us through the church service and then the bureaucratic nightmare of returning Norm to Jamaica for burial. Without drawing breath and with no time to grieve we then had to refocus our attention on to our beautiful brother Rob who had a short journey – 10 weeks from diagnosis to death. Rob had 7 weeks of no support from his GP and we had to fight for any help – only at the end of his days did Rob get a visit from his GP and we could action the district nurses and rapid response team – within a few days Rob was in St Marys Hospice and we literally camped out until he died peacefully. From the initial chat in their lovely premises we knew we had the right people – humorous, empathic and so compassionate – we also had a laugh too and Fran and Carrie treated Rob with total respect and dignity – we were helped through all the process and we were consulted at every stage – Fran advised us throughout but what she didn’t know, she found out. The service was beautiful and was all about Rob. There were about 200 people present which was amazing and there was such an eclectic mix of people, from Rob’s school friends to Netball teammates and football teammates to musicians. We wanted them to leave the service thinking “I didn’t know that about Rob…” and from people’s comments, we were successful in achieving that aim. The white leaf hearse epitomises the aesthetically beautiful but simple philosophy behind a natural undertaking and exactly fitted Rob’s character and outlook. After the service, Fran and Carrie are continuing to support us to take Rob’s ashes back to his mum in Italy to be laid to rest with his Dad. Rob’s mum could not be with Rob as she is herself blind and disabled and Fran ensured that we were able to communicate everything to Dianne as effectively as possible in order to relieve her suffering. There are absolutely no words to describe what a difference Fran and Carrie made – they have never been hardened by their business and were very moved themselves at the funeral and we felt as if we were all in it together as friends. They made sure that we were able to give Rob an appropriate and beautiful send-off. I am so happy that I picked up that magazine and randomly read the article, retaining the number just in case I needed to use them. Their work is so important and goes way beyond what can be expected – thank you so much ladies xxx

I would totally recommend Natural Undertaking for their empathy, support and total professionalism. From our first meeting, Fran supported us at a very difficult time to organise a wonderful farewell to my father, celebrating his life with family and friends in a way that he would have totally approved of. I really appreciate the time and effort she took to get every detail right, from producing the order of service, to the service itself and right through to the engraving on the casket for father’s ashes. Fran, Carrie and Zed provide a brilliant service at a very stressful time in people’s lives. Thank you so much